Hyundai’s first B-segment SUV will be called the Kona.
Named after the coastal region in Hawaii, Hyundai says Kona “is a renowned destination for thrill-seeking travelers and reflects the adventurous spirit” of its upcoming model. Set to launch in the summer of 2017, the Hyundai Kona will be a compact crossover and has been developed with a focus on enhancing driving dynamics. The Korean automaker hopes to set new performance standards in the segment, with the Kona promising to deliver best-in-class interior space and innovative design features that hint at the future direction of the brand’s next generation of SUV models.
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The Hyundai Kona is believed to be based on the i30, putting it in a similar class as the Mazda CX-3. Although Hyundai has only released the above teaser image, the Kona’s headlights look quite different than any other existing Hyundai model, hinting that it will usher in a new design language for the brand.
Spy photographers have already caught the Hyundai Kona testing on public roads, but not much is known about the model. Expect front-wheel drive to be standard however, although optional all-wheel drive should be available.
